The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a trial for using a pink ball in day Test Matches to help avoid interruptions due to bad light, with agreement from both teams. This decision was made during the ICC Board meetings in Ahmedabad, India, where the board also discussed various measures to enhance women’s cricket and introduce new ideas in the game.
The board expressed concerns about the fast growth of franchise cricket worldwide and its potential impact on international cricket. To address this, the ICC plans to create a committee to explore how franchise cricket can align with the international schedule.
The ICC will conduct research on lighting technology for match officials and venues to minimize time lost due to poor lighting. They will also collaborate with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to co-fund research and development projects.
Referees will now use Hawk-Eye data to report illegal bowling actions. Additionally, the break between innings in a T20I match has been shortened to 15 minutes.
The ICC Board has also shifted the schedule for the ICC Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 from June-July to February 14–28, 2027. Following the meeting, ICC Chairman Jay Shah emphasized the need to keep the game fair, competitive, and exciting.
Cricket must remain fair, competitive, and exciting for all: Jay Shah
“Our talks in Ahmedabad reaffirm the ICC’s dedication to governance, management, and global growth of cricket. From women’s cricket to emerging nations and the management of franchise competitions, our discussions and decisions today are aimed at ensuring cricket remains fair, competitive, and appealing worldwide,” Shah stated in a media release.
In addition, the ICC will run the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026 as a 10-team event, which will include five Full Members and five Associate Members, chosen based on rankings and past T20 World Cup qualifications. Notably, the ICC has suspended Canada from its membership as part of these developments.